Staff Sergeant Joyce B. Malone, from Fayetteville, North Carolina, began her military journey in 1958 when she enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving for four years. After completing her service in 1962, she married and earned her degree from Fayetteville State University.
While working at Fort Bragg (Fort Liberty), Malone chose to continue her military career, joining the Army Reserve’s 82nd Airborne Division in 1971. Three years later, she made history as the first Black woman and the oldest soldier to earn Airborne wings in the U.S. Army Reserve. By the time she was 38, Malone had completed 15 parachute jumps, demonstrating resilience and breaking barriers throughout her service.
Sources:
https://www.womenveteransalliance.com/celebrating-black-history-month/
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